Illumination ceremony marks milestone for downtown Vancouver church

Nov 17 2016, 3:23 am

The age-old sound of church bells ringing will be part of a special celebration at Christ Church Cathedral, in downtown Vancouver this Thursday.

The church’s four new bronze bells are now encases in a new 100 feet tall shimmering, stained glass spire, designed by Vancouver’s Proscenium Architecture and Design with glass from Vancouver’s Kits Glass.

The artistic glass, titled “Welcoming Light”, by Canadian artist Sarah Hall, completes new contemporary additions to the historic 126 year-old cathedral.

Christ Church Cathedral's new bell tower (Sarah Hall Studio)

Christ Church Cathedral’s new bell tower (Sarah Hall Studio)

The bells, recently cast by the Paccard Bell Foundry of Annecy, France, will become a regular feature of Vancouver life.

They will ring at the beginning and end of each work day, on Sundays prior to church services, in celebration of holy days, and to mark civic events and holidays.

To celebrate, a special service will be held on Thursday, followed by the illumination of the spire, ringing of the bells, and a champagne reception and open house inside.

Christ Church Cathedral's new tower at night (Sarah Hall Studio)

Christ Church Cathedral’s new tower at night (Sarah Hall Studio)

The celebration marks a milestone in the $9 million “Raise the roof, ring the bells, feed the hungry!” campaign, which funded the cathedral’s new roof and community kitchen.

“It takes city to raise a Cathedral,” said Peter Elliot, Christ Church Cathedral’s dean and director. “We’re grateful to all who have so generously supported our recent efforts and invite all to come take a look at the new spire and roof.”

Christ Church Cathedral and its new tower (Sarah Hall Studio)

Christ Church Cathedral and its new tower (Sarah Hall Studio)

Ring Out!

Where: Christ Church Cathedral – 690 Burrard Street, Vancouver

When: Thursday November 17, starts at 4:30 pm

Info: thecathedral.ca/event/ring-out/

DH Vancouver StaffDH Vancouver Staff

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